When celebrities sing the American National Anthem, it’s always a big deal online. Whether it’s Demi Lovato’s flawless a cappella performance at the World Series or Fergie’s infamous rendition that had everyone talking, these moments grab attention. But when Kentucky country legend Chris Stapleton stepped onto the field at Super Bowl LVII, he created a moment that stood out from all the rest.
Chris performed at Arizona’s State Farm Stadium, and his version of the anthem has since been watched over 8.8 million times. It’s easy to see why. With his black Fender Telecaster guitar slung around his neck, Chris chose to ditch the typical a cappella approach most celebrities go for. Instead, he paired his raw, smoky voice with a simple, fingerpicked guitar riff. The result? A hauntingly beautiful performance that moved not just the audience but even one of the pro players to tears.
But don’t think the guitar overshadowed his voice. Chris’s raspy, soulful vocals were pure magic. Every note was filled with emotion, carrying the warmth and depth of his Southern roots. It was authentic, powerful, and unforgettable.
As if that wasn’t enough, Chris wasn’t alone in creating this incredible moment. Troy Kotsur, an Oscar-winning actor and a deaf American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter, stood alongside him to interpret the lyrics live. Troy’s dynamic signing added an extra layer of meaning to the performance, making it even more inclusive and impactful. The Armed Forces Color Guard and drummers from “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band also joined in, creating a stirring scene of unity and pride.
At 44 years old, Chris was already a ten-time Grammy winner when he performed at the Super Bowl. This incredible performance also came just months before the release of his fifth studio album, Higher, in late 2023.
For those unfamiliar with Chris’s journey, his rise to fame is nothing short of inspiring. He spent 14 years in Nashville as a songwriter and played in several bands that never quite broke through. It wasn’t until he released his debut solo album, Traveller, at the age of 37 that his career truly took off. The album’s success was cemented when Chris won three major awards at the 2015 Country Music Association Awards. Since then, the cowboy hat-wearing musician has become a country music powerhouse, collaborating with big names like Bruno Mars, Ed Sheeran, Adele, and even Snoop Dogg.
After Chris set the tone with his soulful anthem, Rihanna took the stage for the Super Bowl’s halftime show. It was her first live performance in over five years, and she made it unforgettable. Wearing a stunning red outfit and performing while pregnant, she wowed the crowd with a medley of her biggest hits—all from a high, floating platform.
If you’re as impressed with Chris Stapleton as we are, make sure to check out his YouTube channel for more of his incredible music. You can also follow him on Facebook and Instagram or visit his website to stay updated on his latest projects.
What did you think of Chris Stapleton’s National Anthem performance? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
